Synthesis, characterization and aggregation behavior of block copolymers containing a polyisocyanopeptide segment

• Published in: Polymer (Guilford) 2004-10, Vol.45 (22), p.7417-7430
• Main Authors: Cornelissen, Jeroen J.L.M., Fischer, Matthias, van Waes, Rens, van Heerbeek, Rieko, Kamer, Paul C.J., Reek, Joost N.H., Sommerdijk, Nico A.J.M., Nolte, Roeland J.M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Exact sciences and technology; Organic polymers; Physicochemistry of polymers; Polymer chemistry; Polymers with particular properties; Preparation, kinetics, thermodynamics, mechanism and catalysts; Self organization
• ISSN: 0032-3861; 1873-2291
• DOI: 10.1016/j.polymer.2004.08.067

Following up on previous preliminary communications the synthesis of a series of block copolymers by applying amine end-capped polymers as initiators for the nickel(II) catalyzed polymerization of isocyanides is reported. Using a polystyrene derivative as the initiator, superamphiphiles containing a hydrophobic polystyrene tail and a charged helical polyisocyanide headgroup were prepared. Under proper conditions these superamphiphiles self-assembled in water to give a variety of aggregate morphologies, among which are superhelical architectures. Initiators derived from carbosilane dendritic wedges gave block copolymers with a unique combination of structural elements, i.e. a flexible dendritic block and a rigid polyisocyanide block. Block copolymers derived from the 3rd generation dendrimers form well-defined micellar aggregates in the presence of Ag+ ions. These aggregates have been used to construct nanoarrays of metallic silver.